Children will be better protected from dangerous dogs in the home
under a new government measure introduced to Parliament today
(June 9th) to strengthen safeguards around banned breeds,
including XL Bully types.
From 1 November 2026, owners must not leave a child under the age
of 12 in close proximity to a banned breed dog in a
domestic setting or other private settings place
without adult supervision. This will be a condition of the
Certificate of Exemption, which allows owners to legally
keep a banned breed.
The new safeguard will reduce the risk of serious
injury to children in domestic environments, while allowing
exempted dogs to remain with families where appropriate
supervision is in place.
As with other conditions of exemption, failure to comply
with this requirement may result in enforcement action. This
can include seizure of the dog and potential prosecution, in line
with existing powers under the Dangerous Dogs Act
1991.
Animal Welfare Minister,
said:
Any attack on a child by a dangerous dog is unacceptable.
The safety of children must always come first, and this new
measure will strengthen protections in the home by ensuring young
children are not left unattended around banned breed dogs,
including XL Bully types.
While many owners are acting responsibly - those that don't
should face the legal consequences.
While this measure applies specifically to
banned breedtype dogs, young children should be
supervised around all breeds of dog.
Further guidance will be published ahead of implementation on 1
November.
Also being introduced are changes to the insurance requirements
for owners of exempted banned dog breeds. The requirement for
third-party public liability insurance will be removed from July
1st. This reflects the withdrawal of the only available provider
and the absence of any suitable alternative products in the
market.
All other legal requirements remain in place, including
requirements for exempted dogs to be muzzled and kept on a lead
in public places. Owners remain fully responsible for
any harm caused by their dogs.
Responsible dog ownership continues to be encouraged across all
breeds of dog and Defra keeps current dog control rules under
review to ensure they are sufficient to ensure communities are
protected.
